A story from the Independent showcases the effects of depression and anxiety on sufferers. Mental illness can trigger strange, socially inappropriate behaviours, as in the case of one elderly Singapore resident who accosted an American on the MRT and asked for sex.

The MRT Incident

A 70-year-old Singaporean boarded the MRT on April 19, coming from Chinatown. He arrived with a friend, and the two of them found seats near the centre of the carriage. After a while, the old man began speaking to a woman near him, who got up and moved to a different part of the carriage.

After a few minutes, the elderly man got up and approached an American, Joe DeMarini. “I like you,” he said. Then he began making requests for sex, oblivious to the other passengers and not seeming to care that DeMarini was a complete stranger. An argument ensued, and the old man slapped the American. DeMarini’s friend took a video of the bizarre incident with her phone and DeMarini posted it on Facebook later that day.

Police Intervention

A couple of days after the incident occurred, DeMarini complained to police about the man who had accosted him. The complaint was lodged around 4 p.m. on April 21, and the 70-year-old man was arrested around 10 p.m. that same day.

According to the investigation by The Independent, the old man claimed no memory of the incident. He says that he is blind in one eye, he was drunk, and he struggles with anxiety and depression. Not long before the assault on the MRT, the elderly man’s depression had worsened due to family issues, causing him to drink more and suffer from more anxiety attacks.

Common Struggles for Depression Sufferers

Depression sufferers can sometimes experience incidents like this one, especially if their condition is made worse by stress factors. Struggles at home, on the job, or in school can increase depression; and health problems can affect a person’s state of mind, too. To cope with the depression and anxiety, a patient may turn to drink or drugs to find relief. Instead of offering a lasting solution, these substances only lessen the person’s ability to make appropriate choices.

It’s important that depression sufferers inform their caregiver and their Singapore psychiatrist when they begin to feel worse. Sometimes, additional medication, therapy, counselling, or other treatments can stave off or shorten a bad bout of depression.

Therapy and Counselling in Singapore

Is your depression becoming worse to due stress in your life? Instead of trying to cope on your own, look for real help from professionals. The Singapore psychiatrists at Adelphi Psych Medicine Clinic truly care about patients, and the care team is ready to welcome you into a safe, confidential environment where you can find the support that you need. Explore our wide range of therapies and specialty services on the Adelphi Psych Medicine Clinic website, and feel free to call us anytime to set up your appointment.